Waste Management

Over the last decade, the way we deal with our waste in Swansea has changed significantly. Ambitious targets were set in Wales and the recycling of household waste has increased ten-fold. The main push has been to reduce the amount we send to landfill as the existing landfill sites were running out. Dumping waste can also cause contamination of groundwater, increase greenhouse gas emissions and create problems with litter, flies and other pests.

However, recycling is not the best solution to our waste problems as the processes involved usually require energy and transportation – reusing items and materials generally requires less energy and reducing the amount we use in the first place is an even better solution. The introduction of a tax on single use bags in Wales has demonstrated how our behaviour can be influenced towards more sustainable practices.

Organic waste makes up about a third of household waste. Separating this for composting can provide a useful product.

There are many projects and businesses in Swansea helping to divert material from landfill and demonstrating how we can reduce our waste.

The Green Shop at The Environment Centre sells household cleaning products such as washing up liquid and multi surface cleaner in bulk, allowing you to re-fill your bottles. There are also several items for sale made from recycled products such as jewellery, juice carton bags and glassware. Some of the building’s design features have recovered or recycled materials. For example, the café tables are made from washing machine drums and the reception counter has a decorative recycled glass front.

Swansea Community Farm has a community composting demonstration area with a range of composting bins and methods on show.

AB Glass is a local company with impressive waste minimisation practices. Throughout its production processes, staff separate various materials which are then collected for recycling. It has achieved the Green Dragon level 5 environmental standard and has won several awards in recognition of its commitment to sustainability and good practice.